Two CFISD elementary students take a painting class at Camp Captivate, a specialty camp that includes STEAM classes. CFISD was named a 2023 District of Distinction award winner, marking the third time the district has earned the prestigious designation.
Aug. 8, 2023—The Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) named CFISD a 2023 District of Distinction award winner, marking the third time the district has earned the prestigious designation. CFISD is among only 68 districts in the state to earn this award.
More than 1,200 school districts were eligible to apply for the 2023 award. Each district was required to submit documentation demonstrating it met criteria from the rigorous 14-point rubric during the 2022-2023 school year. The rubric examines a district’s visual art program from participation in TAEA through membership, exhibitions and contests to community engagement in the visual arts through field experiences, community service and collaboration with other content areas.
Langham Creek High School junior Katelinn Barnes’ artwork, Loss, won a Gold Seal Medallion at the State Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE). A Gold Seal Medallion is the contest’s highest honor and is awarded to students who received a Rating V. VASE is one of many contests that CFISD middle and high school students enter their work in throughout the year.
“Receiving the District of Distinction award is a profound recognition of the exceptional dedication and talent within CFISD,” said Lee Carrier, CFISD visual arts coordinator. “This achievement underscores the transformative impact of art education and highlights our commitment to nurturing creativity and excellence. My heartfelt gratitude goes to our remarkable art teachers and their students, whose collective endeavors in art contests, community service and exhibits have enabled us to meet the award’s esteemed criteria. This honor motivates us to further elevate our artistic pursuits and continue shaping a vibrant, innovative learning environment.”
Holmsley Elementary School fourth grade student Alan Nguyen stands next to his artwork at the CFISD Spring Art Show on April 25 at the Berry Center.
The District of Distinction award was created by TAEA in 2019. The award honors school districts that are providing a well-rounded education that advocates and integrates visual arts curriculum to inspire creativity and build social emotional learning that connects learners to their community and beyond. CFISD previously won this distinction in 2020 and 2022.
CFISD, along with other 2023 District of Distinction winners, will be honored at the TAEA Administration and Supervision Division meeting and general session during the TAEA Fall Conference on Nov. 17.
Cy-Fair High School freshman Megan Lewis won Best of Show for her artwork titled “Hay There” in the 2023 Middle School division of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Art Program. The Rodeo School Art Program is one of many contests that CFISD students enter their work in throughout the year. CFISD also showcases rodeo artwork at a district exhibit at the Berry Center each year.